Computer networks
[Link] Concepts and Definitions
Computer Network: A collection of interconnected autonomous computing devices that communicate and share
resources (hardware, software, storage).
Server: A main computer providing data, software, and resource sharing to other computers (clients).
Client: A networked device that requests resources or services from a server.
Host/Node: Any device/computer connected to the network.
Communication Channel: The medium (wired or wireless) through which data is transmitted between devices.
Network Protocols: Set of rules governing data communication.
Transmission Media: Divided into Guided Media (wired) and Unguided Media (wireless).
[Link] and Disadvantages of Networking
Advantages:
Resource sharing (hardware, software, storage).
Improved communication between devices.
Cost-effective software deployment (software installed on server accessed by many clients).
Disadvantages:
Complexity increases with more connected systems.
Security risks due to data sharing.
Network failure (e.g., server downtime) can halt operations.
Management challenges in large networks.
[Link] of Computer Networks
Hosts/Nodes: Devices/computers on the network.
Server: Central device managing resources.
Client: Requests resources from servers.
Hardware Devices: Hubs, switches, routers (detailed in next videos).
Communication Channels: Wired (cables) and wireless (radio, Wi-Fi).
Software: Network protocols and operating systems.
Functionalities: Domain Name System (DNS), file sharing.
Types of Networks Based on Roles of Computers
1. Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Network
All devices act as peers and share resources directly.
Used in small/home networks, inexpensive and easy to install.
Limitations: max ~10 devices, limited security, no dedicated server.
2. Client-Server Network
Centralized server manages resources and client requests.
Clients depend on server; also called master-slave model.
Example: server is principal, clients are teachers in a school.
Cost-effective, centralized maintenance, scalab
Evolution and Internet Overview
ARPANET (1969): First network by US Department of Defense to connect universities.
NSFNET: Developed by US National Science Foundation for academic purposes.
These networks, along with private networks, evolved into the Internet — a global "network of
networks."
Internet Functionality: Networks are connected via gateways and backbone networks.
Gateway: Connects different types of networks (like an airport connecting different countries).
Backbone: Central network connecting various networks (like a highway).
Data Communication Terminology
Data Channel: Medium to carry data from one point to another.
Baud: Unit measuring symbol rate of data transmission.
Bits per Second (bps): Measures data transfer speed.
Bandwidth: Amount of data transmitted per unit time (bps or Hertz).
Data Transfer Rate: Speed of data transfer, measured in bps or Bytes per second.
Network Identification: IP Addresses
IP Address: Logical address used to identify devices on a network for data transmission.
IPv4: 32-bit address, written as four octets (e.g., [Link]).
IPv6: 128-bit address, written in eight groups of hexadecimal numbers.
OUI: Organizational Unique Identifier, related to hardware network identification (MAC addresses).
Key Insights
Computer networks enable resource sharing, communication, and efficient data transfer.
Networking requires hardware (servers, clients, switches), software (protocols), and transmission media.
Different network types serve different scales: LAN (local), MAN (metropolitan), WAN (global), PAN
(personal).
Switching techniques—circuit, message, and packet—affect how data travels in networks.
Guided and unguided transmission media have distinct advantages and limitations based on use case.
Network topology impacts performance, scalability, fault tolerance, and cost.
The Internet is a vast WAN formed by interconnected smaller networks via gateways and backbone
infrastructure.
Network Devices
Modem: Converts digital signals from computers into analog signals for transmission over telephone
lines (modulation) and vice versa (demodulation). Two types:
Internal Modem (built into the computer)
External Modem (connected externally)
RJ45 Connector: An 8-wire connector used primarily in Ethernet LANs supporting data transfer rates
up to 10 Mbps.
Network Interface Card (NIC): Hardware enabling connection between computers and networks,
supporting:
Wired connections (cables)
Wireless connections (Wi-Fi)
Each NIC has a unique MAC address (Media Access Control).
Ethernet Card: A type of NIC specific to Ethernet technology, enabling LAN communication with
transfer rates up to 10 Gbps.
Hub: Connects multiple computers, broadcasting incoming messages to all devices. Two types:
Passive Hub: Simply passes signals.
Active Hub: Amplifies signals before passing.
Switch: A more intelligent device than a hub that forwards data only to the intended recipient based
on MAC addresses, implementing unicast transmission.
Repeater: Amplifies and restores weakened signals beyond 100 meters cable length to maintain data
integrity.
Types: Amplifier repeater and signal repeater.
Bridge: Connects multiple LANs with the same protocol, filtering or forwarding traffic based on MAC
addresses to improve network performance.
Router: Connects different networks following different protocols. Uses routing tables to determine
the optimal path for forwarding data packets using IP addresses.
Gateway: Connects dissimilar networks and manages data transmission using packet switching.
Wi-Fi Card: Facilitates wireless internet access, available as internal or external components,
commonly using PCI Express technology.
Network Security Concepts
Authentication: Verifying user identity through credentials.
Authorization: Granting permissions to authenticated users.
Biometric Systems: Use unique physical traits (fingerprints, retinal patterns) for identification.
Firewall: Hardware or software-based first line of defense preventing unauthorized access to private
networks.
Encryption: Protects data from unauthorized access during transmission.
Terminology Related to Network Security Threats
Cookies: Small data files stored by web browsers to track user activity.
Hackers: Skilled individuals with malicious intent to steal data.
Cyber Law: Legal framework governing internet usage and cybercrime.
Viruses: Malicious programs that replicate and damage files.
Types: File infector, boot sector virus, macro virus.
Trojan Horse: Malicious program disguised as harmless, replicates and damages files.
Worms: Self-replicating programs that spread over networks without host files.
Spam: Unwanted junk emails; filters can help avoid.
Malware Categories:
Spyware: Secretly monitors user activity and steals sensitive data.
Adware: Displays unwanted ads.
Ransomware: Encrypts data and demands ransom for decryption.
Keyloggers: Track keystrokes to capture sensitive information.
Network Attacks
Snooping: Unauthorized monitoring or accessing files.
Eavesdropping (Use Dropping): Secretly listening to communication.
Denial of Service (DoS): Prevents legitimate users from accessing services.
Intrusion: Illegal access to digital networks or systems.
Buffer Overflow Attacks and Traffic Flooding: Specific attack techniques causing system failures or
network congestion.
Key Insights
Network devices range from simple hubs to complex routers and gateways, each serving specific roles in
data communication.
Protocols define communication rules ensuring reliable and secure data transfer.
Wireless technologies have evolved through generations (1G to 5G), drastically improving data speeds
and capabilities.
Security mechanisms like authentication, authorization, firewalls, and encryption are critical to protect
networks from diverse threats.
Malicious software and attacks pose significant risks, requiring awareness and protective measures.